One of the major advantages to living in our region is its proximity to one of the most beautiful, bustling, and unique cities in the world: Pittsburgh. No, I’m not at all biased.

No matter where you live in Beaver County, you won’t have more than an hour to drive to access all of the Burgh’s activities and charm. Especially in the summer time, there is no limit to the amount of fun you can have in the city.

So, why don’t I pack up the family and drive into town every weekend?

Even I am not bold enough to assume that my 3-year old will be able to handle an hour in the car each way on a regular basis.

I’m looking for an easy fix… something that I know he will enjoy, but that is quick and in close proximity to home. I also don’t want to spend $20 a person for whatever we end up doing.

Because of this, I’ve started considering local options. My parents took my brother and I on “adventures” almost every weekend, so most of these activities and locations are very near and dear to my heart.

What does Beaver County have to offer that’s fun for the whole family, close to home, and also affordable? Here is a list of family friendly events and activities in the county that are FREE!

Local Parks, Various Locations

Whether it’s packing up a picnic, exploring an old town, letting the kids run through the playground or open fields, fishing, hiking, swimming, etc. You can’t run out of things to do at our local parks!

Beaver County Airport/Air Heritage Museum, Chippewa

Hours: 10AM-5PM Monday-Saturday

If you have any interest in airplanes, or have a little boy who is obsessed, then you absolutely MUST check this out! The actual museum contains a history of flight through pictures and artifacts, including examples of civilian, commercial and military aircrafts, artifacts from WWII, and much more.

They even have actual airplanes on-site. Some of them are open for the public to explore, walk through, and have your picture taken acting as a real life pilot!

There is an actual pilot program that is instructed at the Beaver County airport, so there are always planes and helicopters taking off and landing. We pack up a picnic lunch and let my son watch them come and go from the best seats in the house. Everyone is so friendly and we always get to chat with an amateur pilot or two.

Castle Toys Story Time, Beaver

One the first and third Mondays of every month, a free story time geared towards our younger group is held from 11AM to noon at Castle Toys and Games in Beaver. Remember, this is actually inside a toy store, so it’s sure to please!

This is a great opportunity to do something fun with the little ones, then grab lunch or some ice cream at one of Beaver’s fantastic local spots.

Old Economy Village, Economy

Old Economy is a recognized National Historic Landmark, which was founded by German immigrants and built up between the years of 1824 & 1830. There are 17 historic structures on site, all in their original state and all available to the public for tours.

Merrick Art Gallery, New Brighton

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-4:30PM, Sunday 1PM-4PM

If you’d like to stay indoors and experience some real culture, check out the Merrick Art Gallery right in the heart of New Brighton! They have a HUGE collection of oil paintings, mostly from the 19th century.

Beaver County Model Railroad and Historical Society, Monaca

Hours: Tuesday from 6:30PM to 8PM

As a mother of a train fanatic, this is a place where we could literally spend hours at a time. Instead of little blue Thomas the Tank Engines rolling all over my living room floor, this is an opportunity to see some “grown-up” train sets.

They collect, preserve and display railroad memorabilia. Their intricate displays and model train sets are absolutely incredible. If you have little boys, this is a “must” on your list.

Car Cruises, Various Locations

What better way to transport your family back in time than to check out one of the county’s many local car cruises? And don’t worry, you don’t need your own car to participate in the fun.

Walk through hundreds of classic cars, listen to some tunes from the 50’s and 60’s, grab a gyro and an ice cream come and you’re all set for a great day with the kids.

This doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of all that Beaver County has to offer that won’t break your budget. If you’re looking for a great weekend adventure for the entire family, check out some of these sites. I promise, you won’t be disappointed!

What are some of your favorite activities and spots to visit? Please share so that we can keep adding to our lists of free family fun!

Allie is a lifelong resident of Beaver County. She is a 2006 graduate of Blackhawk High School, and still resides in Patterson Heights with her husband Andy and their 3-year old son, Luke. She is a Regional Manager at PLS Logistics and a sports fanatic. You can find her on Facebook as Allie Dixon.